6 Less-Guilt Ways to Get Your Chocolate Fix

When you want chocolate, you want chocolate, right? While a big splurge is cool now and then, the everyday chocolate craving doesn't mean you must become victim to a calorie-loaded candy bar. No, we're smarter than that, gals. Check out these smart ways to get the chocolate fix you need, without so much of the guilt ...

Need your chocolate--now? Consider treating yourself to one of these low-cal options:

1. Make a chocolate soda: It may sound strange, but it's pretty brilliant--really. What our grandmother's used to drink all the time from the soda fountain actually makes a pretty genius 2010 treat. Just mix a few tablespoons of chocolate syrup (I like the fat-free kinds from Santa Cruz Organics) with a bit of seltzer water and you're good to go. Yes, the traditional sodas call for a scoop of ice cream on top, but I promise, you won't miss it.

2. Stick with one square: I know, how dull to limit yourself to a tiny wedge of chocolate when you feel like eating the whole thing, right? But, I've done a lot of research for articles in the past years about cravings, and really, our bodies only want a taste--not a humongous portion. Try giving yourself a taste of what you really want. In a few minutes, you'll feel satisfied. Promise.

3. Keep a stash of instant hot cocoa in your desk: There are plenty of low-sugar varieties on the market now, and hot cocoa is a great way to get the chocolate fix you need without overdoing it. Or, if you're ordering your hot cocoa from the cafe, ask for "light on the chocolate" with your order. Many coffee shops make their hot cocoa so sweet, it's crazy. You can ask for one or two pumps less of chocolate sauce and still have a terrific treat.

4. Consider a chocolate-flavored nutrition bar. Yes, some are just as bad as candy bars, but if you choose the right one, you can avoid extra calories, fat, and get some fiber and nutrients too. Here are some recommendations from Shape magazine for healthy, chocolatey energy bars.

5. Have a fudge pop: You might be surprised to learn that many fudge pops on the market aren't quite as indulgent as you think--certainly better than a candy bar in terms of fat and calories. A sure bet: Weight Watcher's fudge pops, including Watchers Dark Chocolate Raspberry Bars (just 80 calories and 4.5g fat per bar).

__6. Drizzle a little chocolate sauce on fruit.__Chocolate sauce drizzled on fruit (bananas and strawberries are my fave) is divine. And, a little goes a long way!